Newcastle United legend Gary Speed has been inducted to the National Football Museum Hall of Fame in Manchester.

Speed was praised for his versatility and made 248 appearances for Leeds United and 213 appearances for Newcastle United , as well as playing in midfield for Everton - a team he had supported since childhood.

Speed’s family will be presented with the posthumous award in his memory, following his tragic death in 2011.

The former Wales international is one of nine great players due to be inducted to the National Football Museum Hall Of Fame, at a ceremony at the museum in Manchester on September 21.

This year’s other inductees include Steven Gerrard, Billy Bonds, Frank Lampard, Charlie Roberts, Kelly Smith and Rachel Yankey, while Paralympian and ex-England CP player Alistair Patrick-Heselton is due to receive the Football For All award, sponsored by The FA.

Kevin Haygarth, Interim Director of the National Football Museum, said: “We are delighted to bestow Gary Speed and his family with the honour of a place in the Hall of Fame.

“Speed was a record-breaking player. His talent and dedication on the pitch is fondly remembered and respected by fans of Leeds, Everton, Newcastle, Bolton Wanderers and Sheffield United. He also of course served as Captain of the Welsh side and went on to manage them.

Gordon Taylor OBE, Chief Executive of the PFA who are the main supporters of the Hall of Fame said “We have been pleased to support the National Football Museum since its inception, and subsequently the Hall of Fame, giving fitting recognition to those who have contributed their own special chapters to football’s history book. This year’s nominees fully merit their inclusion.”